The Big Fresno Fair (Fair) Board of Directors announced the transition of visionary Fair CEO John Alkire to the Friends of the Big Fresno Fair (Foundation) as its first CEO. Additionally, the Fair Board voted that Deputy Managers, Stacy Rianda and Lauri King will remain at the helm overseeing all ongoing operations to lead the Fair into the future. Both announcements are effective September 1, 2020.
The management restructuring is part of the Fair’s strategic plan to elevate fundraising efforts to achieve long-term success for the 137-year-old Fresno County tradition; an essential function with added emphasis amid the pandemic, which has significantly minimized normal Fair business operations since March.
“On behalf of the Fair Board, we thank John Alkire for his incredible leadership for the past 16 years during which time our Fairgrounds has been visually transformed with permanent features for the entire community to enjoy including two new museums and connections to the community expanded,” said Larry Serpa, President of The Big Fresno Fair Board of Directors. “As our Fair moves forward, there is not a more qualified team to lead than Stacy Rianda and Lauri King whose vast industry experience, personal investment in our community and unwavering leadership are quintessential for our future.”
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